Build skills. Tell your story. Prepare for what’s next.
Career readiness competencies are the skills and abilities employers look for when hiring college graduates. They help you show what you can do—not just what you’ve studied.
Why This Matters
You are already building these skills through your classes, jobs, and involvement. These competencies help you:
- Recognize what you are learning
- Connect experiences across campus
- Talk about your skills in resumes and interviews
- Prepare for internships and careers
How to Use This Page
- Explore the competencies below
- Think about where you’ve used them
- Reflect on your experiences
- Practice explaining your skills
Career & Self-Development
Proactively developing yourself both personally and professionally through continuous learning, self-awareness, and career exploration.
Communication
Clearly and effectively sharing ideas, information, and perspectives through verbal, written, and nonverbal communication.
Critical Thinking
Identifying and analyzing information to make informed decisions, solve problems, and respond to complex situations.
Teamwork
Working collaboratively with others, valuing diverse perspectives, and sharing responsibility to achieve common goals.
Leadership
Recognizing and building on strengths to guide, motivate, and support others in achieving shared goals.
Professionalism
Demonstrating accountability, integrity, and effective work habits while contributing positively to academic and professional environments.
Technology
Using technology effectively and ethically to complete tasks, solve problems, and support decision-making.
Build Your Skills
You can develop these competencies by:
- Getting involved in student organizations
- Engaging in research
- Participating in internships or campus jobs
- Taking on leadership roles
- Engaging in class projects and discussions
Reflect
After you have become involved, come back to this page to consider these questions. These questions will help you reflect on what you have learned and how you can apply it in the future.
- What is a competency you have developed as a result of this experience?
- How did you use this competency during this experience?
- What abilities did you need to leverage this competency?
- What knowledge did you gain related to this competency?
- How would you describe this competency on your resume or during a job interview?
- What motivation do you have to continue developing this competency?
Learn More
For detailed descriptions and sample behaviors for each competency, visit: https://careers.uiowa.edu/career-ready